10 Best Beaches in Colombia

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Colombia is a coastal South American country with a population of 51.5 million people.

It’s bordered by the countries of Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru, and has coastlines in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

With the official language being Spanish and the capital city being Bogota, Colombia was home to several groups of indigenous people from about 12,000 BCE.

This country is rich in culture and history with influences from the cultures of Spain, France, the United States, and Africa.

The country is known for its exotic fruits (like lulo, guanabena, and granadilla), its delicious, belly-busting food (like areas and Bandeja Paisa), and, of course, the richest coffee in the world.

Few people may know that the most superior, exquisite emeralds on earth are mined in Colombia.

The largest portion of the Amazon rainforest (10%) also lies within the Colombian border.

This portion of the forest is home to over 2,000 species of birds, 1,500 species of fish, and 400 mammals.

The city of Cartegena offers visitors hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, museums, and parks.

This is a great place for adults that are looking to soak up culture during the day and enjoy some exciting nightlife later on.

Bogota is a great place for everyone with tons of museums, historical buildings, and vendors that make handmade jewelry and traditional Colombian clothing.

But the real treat in Colombia is the beaches.

With the dual coasts, tourists and locals have their choice of ocean or bay, active or secluded, big waves or small ripples.

Whatever your preference, all of the beaches in Colombia are beautiful.

It’s no wonder Colombia is one of the fastest up-and-coming tourist destinations in the world.

Read on for 10 of the best beaches in Colombia.

10 Best Beaches In Colombia

10. Puntas Gallinas Beach – Punta Gallianas, Colombia

While this beach at the most northern point of Colombia, is not easy to get to, it’s worth the trip for adventure seekers.

The giant sand dunes go from the beach right into the Atlantic.

They are part of the La Guajira desert (the largest in the country).

The beach is remote, so you’re likely to see more wildlife than people.

The calm waters are good for cooling off and are popular among kiteboarders.

The best way to enjoy this beach is to go with a tour group.

This will include transportation, meals, and basic accommodation.

9. Playa de Bocagrande Beach – Cartegena, Colombia

If you’re a fan of Miami beaches, you’ll be comfortable at this active beach with towering buildings in the background.

The beach is usually active and full of plenty of people-watching opportunities.

There are vendors that will offer everything from chairs and umbrellas to food and drinks.

There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from as well.

The water is clean and good for swimming.

8. Playa de Castillo Beach – Cartegena, Colombia

This is a great beach for a day trip if you’re staying in the city.

The sand is dark and soft, and the water is clean, warm, and great for swimming. 

Cabanas and chairs are available to rent from vendors.

There’s also food and beverages available to purchase.

You can also bring your own food and drinks because there are no restaurants nearby.

The beach is long and wide, so there’s plenty of room for walks and games.

7. Guachalito Beach – Nuqui Choco, Colombia

This is the best beach in Colombia if you’re looking for a remote and natural beach experience that’s off the beaten path.

The beach is located on the Pacific side just outside of a quaint fishing village.

Just beyond the dark sands and turquoise waters is a lush jungle with gorgeous foliage and waterfalls.

For those wanting an extended stay, there are lovely bungalows on the beach, with delicious food offered throughout the day.

It’s also a great place to surf, scuba, snorkel, and whale watch.

6. Las Isla del Rosario – Rosario, Colombia

A fun 45-minute boat ride from Cartegena, this archipelago is one of the best beach spots in Colombia.

Established as a National Park in 1988, it has a fantastic coral reef that visitors are welcome to explore by snorkeling.

Relax with a cocktail and watch the beautiful sunset, fish, or swim in the warm turquoise waters.

5. Playa Rodadero Beach – Santa Marta, Columbia

Set on the bay, this beach is popular with families due to the small, gentle waves.

The beach area is lined with beautiful palm trees, and just beyond are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Beach chairs, paddle boats, and umbrellas are available to rent for the day.

Vendors periodically walk the beach to offer various types of food and drinks.

4. La Boquilla Beach – Cartegena, Colombia

Located at the northern end of the Old City of Cartagena, it’s a short taxi ride from the city’s center.

This active beach is popular with locals and is great for families and groups of friends.

Kitesurfing is popular here due to the winds that pick up each afternoon.

Vendors are available from whom you can rent beach chairs or buy drinks and food.

The beach is also backed by plenty of restaurants for an authentic lunch or dinner.

3. Playa Blanca Beach – Baru Island, Colombia

Perfect for a day trip to the beach, Isla Baru is a 45-minute scenic boat ride from the Old City.

The long, but narrow beach gets its name from the sugary white sand.

The water is warm and shallow and great for swimming and wading.

Visitors can rent pontoon boats, jet skis, and snorkeling gear.

Chairs and loungers are also available to rent for the day.

Vendors are on the beach most of the day and offer a variety of beverages, food, and snacks.

There are also restaurants and hostels dotting the beach if you want to stay overnight.

2. Playas de Palomino – Cartegena, Colombia

The white, powdery sand and palm trees lining this beach make it one of the most scenic in Colombia.

It’s secluded and uncrowded, so it’s great for couples looking for some tranquility and space.

The large waves make it a spot for body surfing.

There are plenty of restaurants, small inns, and hotels located on the beach as well.

1.The Beaches At Parque de National Tayrona – Magdalena, Colombia

Situated below the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, this collection of three small beaches envelops visitors with lush greenery and colorful flora.

The San Juan, Playa Crital, and La Aranilla beaches are all strung together inside the Tayona National Park.

With their golden sand, clear water, coves, and granite rocks, these secluded beaches are a sight to see.

In fact, La Aranilla is one of the most photographed beaches in the world.

It’s a great day trip where you can rent a hammock and relax, swim, or go snorkeling.

Visitors can also hike the beaches and spot some unique wildlife.

If you’re thirsty, consider buying a ready-to-drink fresh coconut sold by one of the indigenous vendors.

Camping is allowed at designated locations inside the park for those that want an extended stay. 

Colombia Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Colombia Safety Review

Safety Index:

42

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: HIGH
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM